Darien High School is a pretty big school, with over 1,000 students roaming the halls and sports fields. The large size of our school can be pretty intimidating at first, making it hard to find your way. Luckily, DHS offers countless clubs and electives for students of all interests to join. These clubs are a perfect way to meet new people and get involved in our school community. No matter what piques your interest, from theater to sports to mindfulness, DHS has the club for you. Listed below are just a few of the clubs and electives DHS has to offer that we recommend.
- Best Buddies
Best Buddies is the largest non-profit organization in the US, and is dedicated to ending the social isolation that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities face in their communities through forming one-to-one friendships.
“Doing Best Buddies is an amazing experience and our culminating event is the state wide Friendship Walk, where we can meet people from all Connecticut chapters to celebrate inclusion!” Co-president, Sasha Teresko
2. Theater 308
Theater 308 is DHS’s theater program, where students can embrace the creativity and dedication it takes to put on a performance, whether in the cast or crew. This year, the department is very excited to be putting on The Crucible, and Les Misérables in the fall and spring!
“Theater 308 is a great place to explore artistically, and a very collaborative space where everyone is welcome to express themselves!” President, Andy Boudo
3. Neirad (A little self promotion never hurt anybody!)
Neirad is a student-run newspaper that was founded in 1938, and it allows students to show what they care about through journalistic writing. As a member, you will learn about the journalism process, how to approach an interview, and how to format an article for publication.
4. Mindful Moments
One of the newest clubs in DHS, Mindful Moments helps to promote the importance of stress management, healthy coping mechanisms, and self-care in your daily life.
“Some of the things we focus on during our meetings are organization skills to help with stress, getting to know fellow club members, and learning about the science behind certain feelings.” Co-president, Eliza Bach
Now for some electives we recommend:
- Critical Approach to Film (CAF)
Critical Approach to Film, or CAF, is a semester-long course where students can watch and analyze movies across genres, and explore the history, and future, of film. Taught by Mr. Speiser, CAF encourages students to open their minds to new perspectives and stories, while also fostering a fun and analytical environment.
2. Urban Studies
Each year, students taking Urban Studies learn about the different aspects and cultures that occupy cities, and how things like architecture, history, and politics influence each city’s cultural landscape. The students also get to go on three field trips into New York City for the class.
3. Digital Photography
Digital Photography offers a unique environment, where students can combine their passion for the arts and technology. The class allows students to embrace the creativity that comes with designing shots, while also studying how the cameras and editing software can impact the final product.
4. Sports Marketing
Using the knowledge that students have from taking Marketing Essentials, Sports Marketing applies those ideas to study real world brands and teams. They also have a student run Instagram account, and people who have taken the class emphasize the importance of public speaking, and collaboration.
“I loved sports marketing because not only did I learn about the world of business and marketing, but I also got to learn about sports! The class gave some real life experience marketing on sports teams.” – Senior, Callie McCloskey
